Overcoming swimming fear: tips for children and adults
Fear of swimming is more common than you think. Not only children, but many adults too are afraid of water or feel insecure in a pool. Fortunately, fear of swimming is easily treated, and everyone can gradually regain their enjoyment of swimming. This article explains what fear of swimming is, how to recognize it, and provides practical tips to help overcome it.
- 10/09/2025
- Reading time: 3 min
What is swimming anxiety?
Swimming anxiety means someone is afraid of being in the water or learning to swim. It often involves fear of submerging, not being able to surface, or losing control in the water. A child with swimming anxiety might refuse to enter the water or cry loudly during swimming lessons. In adults, swimming anxiety often manifests as avoidance: they might skip swimming sessions or feel tense in shallow water.
Fear of swimming can arise from an unpleasant experience (for example, going underwater unexpectedly), from inheriting a fear from parents, or simply from unfamiliarity with water.
Why take swimming anxiety seriously?
A child who is afraid of water, or an adult with a fear of swimming, is at greater risk in emergency situations. Panic increases the risk of accidents. Furthermore, fear of swimming limits enjoyment and self-confidence. Swimming is not only a basic safety skill but also a source of relaxation, exercise, and social activities.
How do you recognize swimming anxiety?
Recognizing swimming anxiety is the first step toward a solution.
In children:
- They cling to parents or the instructor.
- They refuse to participate in water activities.
- They cry or visibly panic near the water.
In adults:
- They avoid swimming pools or swimming holidays.
- They feel tense, even in shallow water.
- They find excuses not to swim.
Overcoming swimming fear: practical tips
Swimming anxiety doesn't disappear overnight. It's about building confidence with small steps.
- Start slowly: paddling or playing on the edge is already progress.
- Breathing exercises: breathing out calmly in the water helps reduce tension.
- Make it fun: Playing with toys or blowing bubbles underwater is fun.
- Four successes: every small step forward deserves appreciation.
- Seek guidance: an experienced swimming school can provide tailored assistance, for example with small groups or private lessons.
The role of parents and caregivers
For a child with a fear of swimming, the attitude of parents and supervisors is crucial. Show that water is fun and avoid fearful remarks such as “Watch out, you’ll drown!”Positive encouragement works better: “You’re doing great, try again.” Parents who are relaxed themselves often pass that feeling on to their children.
When extra help is needed
Sometimes a fear of swimming is persistent. In that case, extra guidance may be necessary. At Van der Wal Sport, we offer swimming lessons where personal attention is paramount. For children with a fear of swimming, we have special groups with more calm and patience, and adults can opt for private lessons. This gives everyone the opportunity to build confidence at their own pace.
Do you or your child struggle with swimming anxiety? Contact Van der Wal Sport and discover how we can help you gradually regain your confidence in the water.
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Van der Wal Sport- en Zwemacademie works according to the ABC diploma of the national Swimming Education in The Netherlands.
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